Guatemala Express: An Essential Dose of Maya Culture
In one week, discover the essentials of Guatemala and its jewels: the charming Antigua Guatemala, the magnificent Lake Atitlán, the vibrant Chichicastenango market and the breathtaking Tikal archaeological site!
GUATEMALA CITY - ANTIGUA GUATEMALA
Welcome to Guatemala! After collecting your luggage, a private transfer takes you to Antigua Guatemala, the former capital. Founded in the 16th century, this charming colonial city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is arguably the most beautiful in Guatemala! Free time in the evening to begin exploring Antigua at your own pace.
ANTIGUA GUATEMALA: Guided tour
Discover Antigua with an English-speaking guide who reveals the secrets of this jewel of colonial architecture. On the programme: the Plaza Mayor, the Palace of the Captains General, the Arch of Santa Catalina (Antigua's iconic emblem) and the churches of La Merced and San Francisco.
ANTIGUA - CHICHICASTENANGO - PANAJACHEL
Head for the Quiché region to visit Chichicastenango and its enormous market: a labyrinth of a thousand colours! Then visit the Church of Santo Tomás, where the Popol Vuh (the sacred book of the Mayas) was discovered. A traditional lunch at a Guatemalan family home, then on to Panajachel on the shores of Lake Atitlán.
PANAJACHEL: Sailing on Lake Atitlán and painting workshop
You stand before one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world: Lake Atitlán, formed inside a volcanic crater! Sail to San Juan La Laguna, a village where many artisans have made their home. On the programme: a naïve painting workshop with a family of artists, followed by lunch in their company.
PANAJACHEL: Iximché – FLORES
Your driver takes you to the Iximché archaeological site - the ancient capital of the Kaqchikel kingdom - where you attend a traditional Maya ceremony. Then on to Guatemala City airport and a flight to Flores, a charming colonial town in the Petén built on an island in Lake Petén Itzá.
FLORES: Visit to Tikal – GUATEMALA CITY
Explore the Tikal archaeological site with a passionate guide who reveals the secrets of this exceptional Maya centre in the heart of the jungle. In this jewel of nature, you will feel every inch the adventurous archaeologist! After the visit, return to Flores then fly back to Guatemala City.
GUATEMALA CITY: Guided tour and international flight
This morning, a guided visit of the capital's historic centre: the National Palace, the Plaza de la Constitución, the Cathedral of San José Los Infantes and the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. Lunch in a typical local restaurant, then transfer to the airport and return flight back home.
- Accommodation
- Domestic flights
- Guide
- Site entry fees
- Transfer
- Additional insurance
- International fligths
- Meals
- Rental car (if self-drive tour)
- Repatriation insurance